Government agency articles
The federal government is made up of hundreds of departments, agencies, bureaus, offices, and more. Scroll or search to read up on what these entities do, how much they spend, and who makes up their workforce.
What does the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) do?
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) is a national institution dedicated to the documentation, study, and interpretation of Holocaust history. The museum's primary mission is to advance and disseminate knowledge about this history, and educate citizens and leaders to confront hatred and prevent genocide. The museum was established in 1993. The Council that founded it, the United States Holocaust Memorial Council, was established by Congress in 1980.
What does the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) do?
The Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for protecting and promoting US agricultural health, regulating genetically engineered organisms, administering the Animal Welfare Act, and carrying out wildlife damage management activities. APHIS works to ensure the health and care of animals and plants, in relation to the economy and public health. It was established in 1972.
What does the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) do?
The Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for overseeing the safe and environmentally responsible development of the nation's offshore energy resources. The agency enforces safety and environmental regulations, conducts inspections, and ensures compliance with federal laws to prevent oil spills and other hazards. It also promotes the use of best practices and technologies to enhance safety and environmental protection. It was established in 2011.
What does the Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) do?
The Office of Community Planning and Development (CPD) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for promoting viable communities by providing decent housing and a suitable living environment and expanding economic opportunities for low- and moderate-income persons.
What does the Risk Management Agency (RMA) do?
The Risk Management Agency (RMA) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for helping farmers and ranchers manage their business risks. The agency provides crop insurance to protect against agricultural production losses due to natural disasters. It was established in 1996.
What does the Employment and Training Administration (ETA) do?
The Employment and Training Administration (ETA) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for providing job training, and labor market information to prospective job seekers. The agency aims to strengthen the workforce. It offers programs and initiatives to support job seekers, employers, and communities in achieving economic stability and growth. It was established in its current form in 1975.
What does the House of Representatives (HOUSE) do?
The House of Representatives (the House) is one of two chambers of the legislative branch responsible for creating and passing federal laws. It has 435 voting members, each representing a district within one of the 50 states. Members serve two-year terms and can be re-elected an unlimited number of times. As one of the chambers of Congress, the House introduces and votes on bills, drafts budget and appropriatons legislation, conducts investigations, and initiates impeachment proceedings against federal officials. It was established in 1789.
What does the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) do?
The Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration (PHMSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for ensuring the safe and secure movement of hazardous materials through the nation. It was established in 2005.
What does the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) do?
The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving the quality, safety, efficiency, and effectiveness of healthcare for all Americans. The agency conducts research to provide evidence-based information on healthcare outcomes, quality, cost, use, and access. It also develops tools and resources to help healthcare providers and policymakers make informed decisions. It was established in 1989.
What does the National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) do?
The National Telecommunications and Information Administration (NTIA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for advising the president on telecommunications and information policy issues. It was established in 1978.
What does the Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) do?
The Bureau of Indian Education (BIE) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for providing quality education opportunities from early childhood through life in accordance with a tribe's needs for cultural and economic well-being. It was established in 2006.
What does the Rural Housing Service (RHS) do?
The Rural Housing Service (RHS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing financial assistance and support to improve housing and infrastructure in rural areas. It was established in 1994.
What does the Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) do?
The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for advancing US national security, foreign policy, and economic objectives by ensuring an effective export control and treaty compliance system. The agency controls which sensitive goods and technologies can be sold or shared abroad. It makes sure companies follow international arms control rules and works to stop the spread of weapons of mass destruction. It was established in it's current form in 2002. Prior to then, it was known as the Bureau of Export Administration.
What does the Maritime Administration (MARAD) do?
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for the waterborne transportation system of the United States. It oversees the US merchant marine and supports national defense and economic needs. It was established in 1950.
What does the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) do?
The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for adjudicating immigration cases by interpreting and administering immigration laws. The agency conducts immigration court proceedings, appellate reviews, and administrative hearings. It aims to ensure the fair and uniform application of immigration laws. It was established in 1983.
What does the Economic Development Administration (EDA) do?
The Economic Development Administration (EDA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce that supports regional growth by promoting innovation and competitiveness. It provides grants and technical assistance for projects that create jobs and stimulate industrial and commercial activity. The agency was established in 1965.
What does the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission (FCSC) do?
The Foreign Claims Settlement Commission of the United States (FCSC) is a subdivision of the Department of Justice responsible for adjudicating claims of US nationals against foreign governments. It was established in 1954.
What does the Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) do?
The Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for ensuring the security of retirement, health, and other workplace-related benefits for America's workers and their families. The agency enforces the provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) and provides assistance to workers in understanding their rights and benefits. It also oversees the administration of pension plans and health plans to ensure compliance with federal regulations. It was established in 1974.
What does the Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) do?
The Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for helping farmers and landowners conserve natural resources. It was established in 1935.
What does the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) do?
The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) is a subdivision of The Executive Office of the President responsible for assisting the President in overseeing the preparation of the federal budget and supervising its administration in Executive Branch agencies. The OMB evaluates the effectiveness of agency programs, policies, and procedures, assesses competing funding demands among agencies, and sets funding priorities. It also ensures that agency reports, rules, testimony, and proposed legislation are consistent with the President's budget and administration policies. It was established in 1970.
What does the Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) do?
The Minority Business Development Agency (MBDA) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for promoting the growth and competitiveness of minority-owned businesses. The agency provides resources, advocacy, and support to help these businesses access capital, contracts, and markets. It was established in 1969.
What does the Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) do?
The Office of Postsecondary Education (OPE) is a subdivision of the US Department of Education responsible for promoting and ensuring access to quality postsecondary education. The agency administers programs that support higher education institutions, provide financial assistance to students, and promote innovation and improvement in postsecondary education. It also works to ensure equal access to education and to foster educational excellence throughout the nation. It was established in 1980.
What does the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) do?
The Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB) is an independent agency responsible for consumer protection in the financial sector. The bureau's primary mission is to ensure that markets for consumer financial products and services work for Americans. The CFPB enforces federal consumer financial laws, supervises financial institutions, and educates consumers to make informed financial decisions. It was established in 2010 as part of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act.
What does the Farm Service Agency (FSA) do?
The Farm Service Agency (FSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture that administers farm loans, commodity and marketing programs, conservation efforts, and disaster assistance. Its programs help stabilize farm income, support land and water conservation, provide credit to new or disadvantaged farmers, and aid recovery from natural disasters. The agency was established in it's current form in 1994.
What does the US Geological Survey (USGS) do?
The United States Geological Survey (USGS) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for studying the landscape of the United States, its natural resources, and the natural hazards that threaten it. The agency conducts research, collects data, and provides scientific information to help understand and manage the nation's water, energy, mineral, and biological resources. It also monitors and reports on earthquakes, volcanoes, and other geological phenomena. It was established in 1879.
What does the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) do?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) is a subdivision of the US Department of Labor responsible for measuring labor market activity, working conditions, and price changes in the economy. The agency collects, analyzes, and disseminates essential economic information to support public and private decision-making. It also conducts research and provides data on employment, unemployment, inflation, productivity, and other economic indicators. It was established in 1884.
What does the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) do?
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for enforcing and administering laws covering the production, use, and distribution of alcohol and tobacco products. The agency ensures that these products are labeled, advertised, and marketed in accordance with the law, and it collects excise taxes on alcohol, tobacco, firearms, and ammunition. It also works to prevent unfair and unlawful market practices and to protect consumers. It was established in 2003 under the Homeland Security Act. Regulation of alcohol, tobacco, and firearms have existed in some form by federal agencies since 1789.
What does the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) do?
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is a subdivision of the Department of Commerce responsible for promoting innovation and industrial competitiveness through science. It was established in 1901.
What does the Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) do?
The Chemical Safety and Hazard Investigation Board (CSB) is an independent federal agency responsible for investigating industrial chemical accidents. The board's primary mission is to determine the root causes of chemical incidents and provide recommendations to prevent future occurrences. The CSB advocates for the implementation of safety measures to protect workers, the public, and the environment. It was established in 1998.
What does the National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) do?
The National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing statistics in service to national agriculture. It was established in 1863.
What does the Economic Research Service (ERS) do?
The Economic Research Service (ERS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing economic research and analysis on policy related to agriculture, food, the environment, and rural development. The agency conducts research to inform public and private decision-making on topics such as agricultural productivity, food safety, and the economic well-being of rural America. It was established in 1961.
What does the Office of Insular Affairs (OIA) do?
The Insular Affairs is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for overseeing federal administration of the US territories. The agency works to ensure that the territories receive appropriate federal support and services and coordinates with territorial governments to address their needs. It was established in 1934.
What does the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) do?
The National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) is an independent agency responsible for supporting and funding artistic excellence, creativity, and innovation for the benefit of individuals and communities. The agency provides grants to artists and arts organizations to promote access to the arts, arts education, and the preservation of cultural heritage. It was established in 1965.
What does the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) do?
The Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for establishing the nation's drug control program. The agency aims to reduce illicit drug use, manufacturing, and trafficking, drug-related crime and violence, and drug-related health consequences. It was established in 1988.
What does the Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) do?
The Council of Environmental Quality (CEQ) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for coordinating federal environmental efforts and working closely with agencies and other White House offices in the development of environmental policies and initiatives. The CEQ oversees the implementation of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), ensuring that federal agencies meet their obligations under the Act. It also advises the President on environmental policies and initiatives. It was established in 1969.
What does the Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH) do?
The Office of Public and Indian Housing (PIH) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for ensuring safe, decent, and affordable housing for low-income families, the elderly, and persons with disabilities, as well as the Native American population. It was established in 1965.
What does the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers (FLETC) do?
The Federal Law Enforcement Training Center (FLETC) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security that provides training for law enforcement professionals throughout their careers. Its programs cover areas such as criminal investigation, counterterrorism, and cybersecurity, preparing personnel to protect and serve the public. The center was established in 1970.
What does the Science and Technology Directorate (ST) do?
The Science and Technology Directorate (S&T) is a subdivision of the Department of Homeland Security responsible for providing the department science and technology support. The directorate conducts research, development, testing, and evaluation of technologies and capabilities to counter threats and enhance security. It was established in 2003.
What does the Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) do?
The Government National Mortgage Association (Ginnie Mae) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for promoting homeownership by guaranteeing mortgage-backed securities, ensuring that mortgage lenders have the necessary funds to offer loans to homebuyers. It was established in 1968.
What does the Bureau of Trust Funds Administration (BTFA) do?
The Bureau of Trust Funds Administration (BTFA) is a subdivision of the Department of the Interior responsible for managing financial assets held in trust by the federal government for Native American tribes and individual Native Americans. The agency ensures the proper management, investment, and disbursement of these trust funds, providing accountability and transparency in its operations. It was established to uphold the federal government's trust responsibilities and to support the economic development and financial stability of Native American communities. It was established in it's current form in 2020.
What does the Bureau of Engraving and Printing do?
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is a subdivision of the Department of the Treasury responsible for designing and producing paper currency (but not coins — those are produced by US Mint), and ensuring enough are in circulation. The agency ensures the integrity and security of the nation's currency and other government documents through advanced printing techniques and technologies. It was established in 1862.
What does the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) do?
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) is a subdivision of the US Department of Justice responsible for enforcing the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States. The agency aims to reduce the availability of illicit controlled substances on the domestic and international markets. It also works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations and collaborates with other agencies to combat drug-related crimes. It was established in 1973.
What does the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) do?
The Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation that regulates and oversees the safety of commercial motor vehicles. Its mission is to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses through enforcement, inspections, and industry outreach. The agency was established in 2000.
What does the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) do?
The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is an independent agency responsible for protecting the public from unreasonable risks of injury or death associated with the use of thousands of types of consumer products. The agency's functions include banning dangerous consumer products, establishing safety requirements, issuing recalls, and conducting research on potential hazards. It was established in 1972.
What does the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) do?
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is a subdivision of the US Department of the Interior responsible for administering public lands in the United States. The agency manages various resources and activities on these lands, including energy development, livestock grazing, recreation, and conservation. It aims to sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of public lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. It was established in 1946.
What does the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) do?
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) is an independent federal agency responsible for regulating, chartering, and supervising federal credit unions across the United States. Its primary mission is to ensure the safety and soundness of credit unions and protect the interests of their members. The NCUA administers the National Credit Union Share Insurance Fund (NCUSIF), which insures deposits at federally insured credit unions. It was established in 1970.
What does the Indian Health Service (IHS) do?
The Indian Health Service (IHS) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for providing comprehensive health services to American Indians and Alaska Natives. It was established in 1955.
What does the Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) do?
The Farm Credit System Insurance Corporation (FCSIC) is a subdivision of the Farm Credit Administration responsible for ensuring the timely payment of principal and interest on insured notes, bonds, and other obligations issued by the Farm Credit System banks. The agency manages the Farm Credit Insurance Fund, which is used to protect investors in Farm Credit System debt securities. It was established in 1988.
What does the Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) do?
The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) is a subdivision of the Department of Health and Human Services responsible for improving access to health care services for people who are uninsured, geographically isolated, or medically vulnerable. The agency provides funding to health providers, supports health workforce training, and oversees discounted prescription drug progams. It was established in 1982.
What does the Farm Production and Conservation Business Center (FPAC) do?
The Farm Production and Conservation Business Center (FPAC) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing support services to the agencies within the Farm Production and Conservation (FPAC) mission area. These services include financial management, human resources, acquisitions, and information technology. The FPAC Business Center aims to streamline operations and improve efficiency, allowing the FPAC agencies to focus on delivering programs and services to farmers, ranchers, and landowners. It was established in 2018.
What does the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) do?
The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) is an independent agency responsible for overseeing and directing the implementation of the National Intelligence Program. The ODNI's primary mission is to lead and support the integration of the intelligence community to protect the interests of the United States. It was established in 2004.
What does the General Services Administration (GSA) do?
The General Services Administration (GSA) is an independent agency responsible for managing and supporting the basic functioning of federal agencies. Its primary mission includes supplying products and services for US government offices, including real estate, acquisition, and technology services. It was established in 1949.
What does the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) do?
The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) is a subdivision of the Department of Labor responsible for enforcing compliance with mandatory safety and health standards to eliminate deaths, injuries, and health hazards in the mining industry. It was established in 1977.
What does the Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) do?
The Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for executing the strategic marketing of agricultural products in domestic and international markets. The agency sets standards, provides grading, and shares market information for farm products to support fair trading and a competitive marketplace. It also oversees organic farming through certification and compliance programs. It was established in 1939.
What does the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) do?
The Rural Utilities Service (RUS) is a subdivision of the Department of Agriculture responsible for providing financing to improve utilities infrastructure in rural areas. It was established in 1935.
What does the Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) do?
The Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) is an independent agency in the executive branch responsible for administering retirement, survivor, and unemployment/sickness insurance benefit programs for railroad workers. It was established in 1935.
What does the Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) do?
The Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) is a subdivision of the Executive Office of the President responsible for offering the President objective economic advice on the formulation of both domestic and international economic policy. The agency analyzes and interprets economic developments, appraises programs and policies of the federal government, and recommends economic policies that will promote employment, production, and purchasing power. It was established in 1946.
What does the Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) do?
The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) is a subdivision of the Department of Transportation responsible for ensuring the safety of the nation's railroad system. The agency develops and enforces rail safety regulations, administers financial assistance programs to support rail infrastructure, and conducts research to improve rail safety and efficiency. It was established in 1966.
What does the Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH) do?
The Office of Lead Hazard Control and Healthy Homes (OLHCHH) is a subdivision of the Department of Housing and Urban Development responsible for addressing lead-based paint hazards and other health and safety hazards in homes. The agency works to eliminate lead-based paint hazards in privately-owned and low-income housing, as well as to promote healthy housing through various programs and initiatives. It was established in 1992.
What does the Legal Services Corporation (LSC) do?
The Legal Services Corporation (LSC) is an independent agency responsible for promoting equal access to justice in the United States by funding organizations that provide civil legal aid to low-income individuals. It was established in 1974.